A temporary filling is just that – temporary. Its purpose is to seal exposed dentine in a cavity or root canal until a permanent filling can be placed.
At No Gaps Dental, our dentists may recommend a temporary filling when a tooth requires short-term protection, such as while waiting for a permanent restoration or monitoring sensitivity after deep decay.
What Is a Temporary Filling?
A temporary filling protects the tooth structure and relieves discomfort until a permanent filling or crown can be completed. It may be placed over a deep cavity for a week or two to see if pain or sensitivity settles before placing the final restoration.
If symptoms do not improve, root canal therapy may be required to remove infection and save the tooth from extraction. Temporary fillings may also be used when there are time constraints during an appointment, allowing the cavity to be sealed until a longer visit can be scheduled for the final restoration.
Temporary crowns are another form of temporary filling. They protect the dentine of a prepared tooth, reduce sensitivity, and prevent tooth movement. These are usually cemented with temporary cement so they can be easily removed when the final crown is ready, usually within two weeks.
Average Lifespan of Temporary Fillings
A temporary filling is typically designed to last two or three weeks, serving its purpose until the final restoration can be placed.
In some cases, temporary materials are used for children, elderly patients, or those with extensive decay. These materials can help release fluoride into the tooth structure and slow down decay. In certain situations, they may last much longer if not placed in high-stress areas of the mouth.
Factors That Influence Durability
The most common material used for temporary fillings is glass ionomer cement (GIC). It is placed into the cavity and gently compacted but kept slightly below contact with the opposing tooth, as it is less durable than the composite resin used in permanent fillings.
For sealing root canal access cavities, a softer white material called zinc oxide is often used. It generally lasts about a week because it wears down quickly but is easy to remove for the next stage of treatment.
Durability is generally not a concern due to the short-term nature of temporary fillings. However, leaving a temporary filling in place for too long can lead to further breakdown or infection beneath it, which is why it’s important to follow up with the final restoration promptly.
How to Care for a Temporary Filling
To help your temporary filling last until your next appointment:
- Avoid hard or crunchy foods that could crack or dislodge it
- Maintain good brushing and flossing habits, as the contours of temporary fillings are not as smooth as permanent ones and can trap plaque more easily
If a temporary filling falls out, contact your dentist as soon as possible to replace it and prevent further damage or sensitivity.
What Happens If a Temporary Filling Fails?
If a temporary filling is lost, bacteria can enter the cavity or root canal and cause complications. For example, during root canal therapy, a cotton wool plug is often placed under the zinc oxide filling to contain the medicated paste and keep the canals sterile. Losing this seal can allow infection to return.
Pain is not the only indicator that a temporary filling needs replacement – in many cases, pain means the nerve is already inflamed or infected. Regular dental check-ups and X-rays are the best way to detect and prevent issues before they become serious.
When to Replace a Temporary Filling
Temporary fillings should be replaced with permanent fillings or crowns as soon as possible. Leaving them in place for too long can result in further decay, breakdown, or infection beneath the temporary material. Once your final restoration is ready, it should be placed promptly to restore strength and protect the tooth for the long term.
Book Your Appointment at No Gaps Dental
Temporary fillings are only a short-term solution. To keep your teeth healthy and functional, have them properly restored as soon as possible.
At No Gaps Dental, our experienced dentists provide both temporary and permanent fillings to protect your teeth and prevent further damage. Visit one of our Sydney locations for comprehensive care and affordable treatment.
Book your appointment today with No Gaps Dental.